Shantell Martin’s collection with Puma is perfect for an art lover

How do you like your sneakers?

Sports label Puma is no stranger to collaborations. Joining the likes of Rihanna and Solange Knowles is British visual artist Shantell Martin. Her whimsical, train-of-thought artwork has a whooping 155k following on Instagram. As she launches a unique collection with Puma, Vogue talks to Martin about the role of art, easter eggs and her unique voice.

What is the role of art in fashion in today’s context?You could argue that fashion is art. What’s the difference between wearing normal clothes and wearing fashion. Art is something that questions, that individuals are drawn too, that allows for expression and connection.

How have you lent your voice to the Puma x Shantell Martin collaboration?
I’ve created a collection that in itself is a body of work. A collection that tells a positive story. Throughout the sneakers and apparel you can find encouraging or questioning words or phrases that might help you in your day or give you some reflection about your path.

In what way do you think the collection will resonate with the audience?
We see a lot of artist/celebrity collaborations these days where you can tell that the person involved didn’t put their all into the collection or even worse had nothing to do with the design or outcome of it. This collection will resonate in a positive way because I cared about what I was working on and I believe that is evident in all the products.

You mentioned that the product offering bears a few hidden messages? What are they?
Why would I tell you and give away the surprise!

If you could highlight one product from the collection, which one would it be and why?
I’m a big fan of the jacket—I love how there are a couple of layers to it and how many ways it can be worn. It’s also like wearing one of my murals, which is really cool.